Central West coaches welcomed a 37-strong group – including Bathurst Bulldogs Number 8 Peter Fitzsimmons – to the Blue Bulls’ initial open training session at Molong’s Dr Ross Memorial Recreation Ground on Sunday afternoon.
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Fitzsimmons signalled his intentions to try and help Central West back to the top of NSW Country rugby by showing up at the session.
He was among a contingent of last year’s Richardson Shield-winning Blue Bulls squad which turned out at the trial, which kicked off Central West’s preparation for this year's Caldwell Cup campaign.
The Blue Bulls earned promotion to the top tier thanks to last year’s tier two win.
While happy see returning players, assistant coach Graydon Staniforth said it was just as, if not more, encouraging to see a number of new faces sticking their hands up for selection.
Reigning Blowes Clothing Cup player of the year Sam Schmidt, from Mudgee, was among that group, as was fellow Wombat Adam Rayner and gun Emus pair AJ Sykes and Carter Hirini.
“We wanted what I guess you’d call the cream of the crop around the Central West and it looks like we’re going to get that,” Staniforth said.
“The quality was obviously there in the 37 we had and a number of other guys we’d identified have indicated they’re committed, but couldn’t get there on Sunday.”
The turn out bodes well leading into Central West’s trial against the NSW Waratahs’ under 20 side in Mudgee on Saturday.
“We’ll be taking 30 over there but it won’t be the final squad we take to the NSW Country Championship. Everyone will get a chance to impress, we’re looking forward to seeing who stands up,” Staniforth said.